Man exposed to asbestos awarded compensation

A man whose health was affected as a result of his exposure to asbestos has been awarded compensation.

Dennis Archer, who has since died, was issued damages earlier this month as a result of being diagnosed with mesothelioma, the Swindon Advertiser reports.

The 85-year-old had worked for British Rail in Swindon for over 15 years until 1963 and was exposed to the hazardous insulating material while there.

Sacks of asbestos allegedly lay all around the area where he worked.

In addition, repairs carried out on damaged vehicles often resulted in panelling being cut off, which exposed workers to the substance.

According to his legal representative, the claim was settled out of court, which was a big relief to the family.

Figures provided by the Health and Safety Executive suggest that the inhalation of asbestos is responsible for around 4,000 deaths a year in the UK, with the main conditions it causes including asbestosis, mesothelioma and pleural plaques.